Joining Valley
Dear Patient,
One of the most well-known and well-loved acupuncture points is Large Intestine 4, aka Joining Valley. It’s the point on your hand in the fleshy area between your thumb and index finger. If you’ve ever had acupuncture, you’ve probably had this point needled.
Acupuncturists love this point because it’s so versatile. Headaches? L.I.4. Circulatory issues? L.I.4. Eye problems? L.I.4. Sinus congestion? L.I.4. Pain anywhere in the body? L.I.4. The Large Intestine channel is said to be abundant in qi and blood, so every point on this channel promotes circulation and nourishes the body’s tissues. But Large Intestine 4 has the strongest action. We often use it with Liver 3 in a combination called the Four Gates. Together, these points open up the floodgates, allowing pent-up qi to rush forth and circulate.
Acupuncturists may love this point, but it’s not always always loved by patients, because it’s tender on almost everyone. Sometimes when we hit the point just right, the muscle will jump. It’s often sore even after the needle is removed. Soreness, tingling, muscle jumping—these are signs that your body is responding to the power of this point. It’s a temporary discomfort in service of profound change.
Love and gratitude,
Your Acupuncturist
P.S. Every Wednesday I write about a different acupuncture point. Are there any you’re curious about? Let me know!
Location Notes:
Large Intestine 4 is located on the dorsal surface of the hand, in the fleshy area between the thumb and index finger. Technically, you find this point by squeezing the thumb against the base of the index finger—L.I. 4 is at the highest point of the bulge of the muscle. But this is a “big” point, and the best way to locate it on yourself is to press around for a tender spot.